Aviation accidents are traumatic events that can lead to severe injuries and change the course of a person's life. If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to ensure the best possible outcome for yourself and your loved ones.
Attorney David Henderson of The Law Offices of David Henderson is a licensed pilot. His legal experience and knowledge combined with his firsthand understanding of aviation makes him the perfect person to help plane crash victims and their families pursue legal action against the person or entity responsible for their aviation accident and injuries.
In our latest blog post, we will walk you through the steps you should take from the moments immediately after a plane crash through the conclusion of an aviation accident lawsuit.
What to Do Immediately After a Plane Crash
Surviving a plane crash in Alaska is just the beginning. What you do in the aftermath can be just as crucial:
- Seeking Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention. Some injuries may not show symptoms until later. Getting a medical exam can help you identify your injuries right away and allow you to start a treatment plan immediately.
- Contacting Emergency Services – Make sure to get in touch with emergency services as soon as possible. This will alert authorities to the crash and prompt a rescue response.
- Documenting Injuries and the Crash Scene – Gather as much information as possible about the crash. Take pictures of the scene and get contact information from any witnesses. This documentation will be invaluable in any future legal proceedings.
- Seeking Legal Advice – Finally, after you have ensured your immediate safety, start to think about the long-term consequences of the accident. Contact a legal professional with experience in aviation accidents. They can help you understand and protect your rights and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your injuries.
Experiencing a plane crash is an enormous shock to the system. In the immediate aftermath, it can be hard to know what to do. By following the tips above, you can protect your health and ensure you are in the best position to seek justice.
Can I Sue if I’m Injured in a Plane Crash in Alaska?
As a survivor of a plane crash or a family member of a victim involved in a crash, understanding your legal options is extremely important. Below, we’ll walk you through the steps you should take following a plane crash to protect your legal rights and secure the compensation you need.
Legal Rights and Options After a Plane Crash in Alaska
After a plane crash, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options. Passengers involved in aviation accidents may have several legal options, including pursuing:
- Negligence Claims – If the accident was caused by the negligence of another party – be it a pilot, airline staff, or a maintenance worker – you may be able to sue for damages.
- Product Liability Claims – When a defective aircraft or component is the cause, you can hold the manufacturer or supplier accountable for the design, production, or maintenance flaw.
- Airline Liability Claims – Even if the airline didn’t directly cause the crash, they may be liable for injury if protocols weren’t followed and safety was compromised as a result.
- Compensation for Emotional Distress – Survivors and families of victims often suffer emotional trauma. You have the right to seek compensation for the psychological impact of the accident.
To explore these options, it’s advised to consult with an aviation accident attorney. They can assess your case and guide you through the legal process.
Gathering Evidence Following an Aviation Accident
The success of your legal claim will largely depend on the evidence you can provide, such as the following:
- Medical Records – Document and retain all medical files related to your plane crash injuries.
- Flight Records – Obtain the flight and maintenance records to help determine the cause of the crash.
- Eye Witness Accounts – Collect statements from fellow passengers or bystanders who saw what happened.
- Expert Testimonies – Consult with aviation experts who can analyze the facts and provide opinions to support your case.
By systematically gathering evidence, you strengthen your legal claim and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Understanding Liability When It Comes to Plane Crashes
Navigating aviation accident liability is complex. A few tips that can help you understand liability as it relates to plane crashes include:
- Research Aviation Laws – The Montreal Convention and the Warsaw Convention establish airline liability and passenger rights. Knowing these laws is essential when it comes to determining the framework for your legal case.
- Identify Responsible Parties – Understanding which parties – including the airline company, the plane manufacturer, or individuals – are at fault is crucial.
- Research Statute of Limitations – A statute of limitation is a strict deadline within which you must file your claim. If you don’t file your claim before the statute of limitation expires, you may not be able to hold those responsible for your injuries accountable or secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and suffering.
Your legal team can guide you through these considerations and build a case that reflects the unique elements of your situation.
Filing an Aviation Accident Lawsuit in Alaska
Initiating a lawsuit is an involved process that involves the following steps:
- Initial Filing – The first step is to file a complaint with the appropriate court. This document outlines the facts of your case and requests compensation.
- The Discovery Phase – Both parties exchange information and can request documents, conduct interviews, and even issue subpoenas.
- Settlement Negotiations – In some cases, the liable party may offer a settlement to avoid a trial. Your legal counsel will help you evaluate the offer to determine if it’s fair.
- The Trial – If negotiations fail, your case will go to trial. Be prepared for a lengthy process with hearings, testimonies, and a judge or jury decision.
Navigating the legal system post-plane crash is daunting, but with a knowledgeable attorney by your side, you can ensure your rights are protected and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Experienced Aviation Accident Attorneys in Alaska Today!
In the aftermath of a plane crash, it's important to recognize that you are not alone and there’s help available to you. At The Law Offices of David Henderson, as our case results prove, we know how to help our clients hold those at fault for their accidents and injuries responsible, including recovering the compensation our clients need for:
- Emotional Distress
- Lost Wages
- Severe Pain and Suffering
- Lost Earning Capacity
- Wrongful Death
- Loss of Consortium (Loss of Companionship, Love, Protection, and Affection)
- Medical Expenses
To learn more about The Law Offices of David Henderson, read our clients’ reviews.
Need help in the aftermath of a plane crash in Alaska? Call us at (888) 295-6566 or contact us online today for a free consultation with our experienced aviation accident attorney.